Hoang A Tuong mansion is located right in the center of Bac Ha town with a total area of ​​about 10,000m2, surrounded by many rows of shady trees and houses. The building was built more than 100 years ago, between 1914 and 1921. This is the residence and workplace of father and son Hoang Yen Tchao, Hoang A Tuong (Tay ethnic group) - the border region's chief before 1945.
The Tay people have a custom of naming a house after the child who lives with their parents when they grow up. Therefore, this building is called "Hoang A Tuong Palace". It is currently one of the tourist attractions of the " white plateau ".
The architecture has been kept almost intact after a hundred years. According to historical records, the preparation and construction of this project was very elaborate. First, the local chief Hoang Yen Tchao invited a good geomancer from China to find the best land and location in the area. The chosen location was on a large hill. The mansion faced southeast, with its back against the mountain and a stream in front.
Not only has a prime location, the architecture of Hoang A Tuong Ancient Palace also makes visitors surprised by the smooth and delicate combination of two Asian and European architectural styles, showing a clear cultural exchange between East and West. The project was designed and supervised by two architects from France and China.
Over time, the building has left traces of the years with mossy brick walls and courtyards, but still retains the main design system including: columns, roofs with many embossed grapevine motifs, laurel patterns symbolizing prosperity, warmth, and happiness. The roof is covered with yin-yang tiles. The arched doors and arched staircases create an impression of innovation and grandeur.
The mansion has a closed rectangular layout with a total of 36 rooms, with a system of escape tunnels at the back. The two-story buildings on the left and right wings of the mansion are currently used to display and sell souvenirs and handicrafts.
Visitors must buy an entrance ticket for 20,000 VND/person. At the entrance, there is a horse riding rental service for taking pictures for 30,000 VND/turn.
Ms. Thu Ha (a tourist from Hanoi) said: “I have known about the “King Meo” Palace for a long time, but this is the first time I have visited. I am impressed by the architecture and historical atmosphere of the building. The entrance fee is also very cheap. The space inside is suitable for taking virtual photos, feeling like being in Europe. However, many exhibition rooms are still empty, the locality should take advantage of this to optimize the tourism exploitation of this place.”
Alex and his wife (a Portuguese tourist) shared: "We came here for a vacation, and the tour guide introduced us to visit the mansion. I found the architecture very beautiful, in the classical Asian-European style. We walked around, took pictures and bought some souvenirs."
Hoang A Tuong Ancient Residence is a place that marks a part of the life of the people of the Bac Ha white plateau in the first half of the 20th century. With its unique values, on June 11, 1999, the Ministry of Culture and Information (now the Ministry of Culture, Sports and Tourism) decided to recognize Hoang A Tuong Ancient Residence as a National Monument.